Roberta “Robie” Lester (March 23, 1925 - June 14, 2005) was an actress best known for her work as a voice actress in various animated productions and her contributions to the entertainment industry. While she may not be as widely recognized as some other figures, her talent and contributions have left a lasting impact.
Biography[]
Lester began her career in the entertainment industry in the 1950s. She initially gained recognition for her work as a singer, performing in various musical productions and on radio shows. Her versatile voice and captivating stage presence soon caught the attention of casting directors in the emerging field of animation, particularly for Walt Disney Records.
One of Lester's notable contributions was her role as the original voice of Eva Gabor's character, Duchess, in Disney's "The Aristocats" (1970). Her ability to bring characters to life through her voice acting made her an invaluable asset to the animation industry. Additionally, she provided the singing voice for characters in other Disney films, including "Robin Hood" (1973) and "The Rescuers" (1977).
Apart from her work with Disney, Robie Lester lent her voice to various other animated projects, solidifying her reputation as a skilled voice actress. She became a familiar presence in the world of Saturday morning cartoons and animated features during the 1970s and 1980s.
In addition to her voice acting career, Lester was a sought-after recording artist. She released several albums, showcasing her singing talent and contributing to her overall popularity. Her work extended beyond the realm of animation, as she also provided vocals for commercial jingles and theme songs for television shows.
Robie Lester's career spanned several decades, and her contributions to the entertainment industry, particularly in animation and music, remain noteworthy. Despite not achieving the same level of mainstream recognition as some of her peers, she left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who appreciated her talent and the characters she brought to life with her distinctive voice. Robie Lester passed away on June 14, 2005, leaving behind a legacy of enchanting performances that continue to be celebrated by fans of animation and music alike.
Notable Oz Voices:
- Dorothy Gale for The Story and Songs of The Wizard of Oz
- Glinda, Princess Gloria, and Button-Bright for The Story of The Scarecrow of Oz
- Polychrome and Nimmie Amee for The Story and Songs of The Tin Woodman of Oz
- Forget-Me-Not and Princess Flora for The Story and Songs of the Cowardly Lion of Oz